How to Get Plexiglass Clean and Clear Again?

Invented in 1933, plexiglass is an acrylic-based material used in various home improvement and décor applications, from windows and furniture to sign displays and aquariums.

As an alternative to glass, the advantages of plexiglass are considerable – it is clear, lightweight, and quite durable under normal conditions. However, the material is vulnerable to scratches and stains, even when being cleaned lightly.

Plexiglass is also susceptible to damage from certain chemicals sometimes found in cleaning products, such as acetone. This can be especially problematic if you have accidentally stained your plexiglass at home, such as with paint from a recent house repaint.

In such cases, it’s important to know the right products and steps to clean the plexiglass without causing further damage. So, let’s explore some of the best methods for getting your old plexiglass clear again safely.

Cleaning Plexiglass at Home

The process of restoring a crystal-clear finish on your plexiglass largely depends on how dirty or damaged it may be. However, keep in mind that improper cleaning techniques or the use of harsh chemicals can easily damage the smooth, glossy surface of plexiglass, leading to unsightly scratches, hazing, or even crazing.

Generally, these are the steps you need to follow…

Step 1: Dusting

First and foremost, you need to clear the dust particles from your old plexiglass. If the surface is larger than what you can effectively clear with your breath, its recommended to use an air blower or a hairdryer on its cool setting because heat can damage the plexiglass.

• Lift up the plexiglass and aim the dryer at a 45-degree angle while running it from side to side.
• Run the dryer until you remove all the dust particles you can
• Check to see if there are any large particles left
• Use a glass cloth or microfiber duster made of dry suede to gently remove the particles.
• Do not use a microfiber cloth, the particles it traps can scratch the plexiglass.

If you dust regularly, this will remove most of the particles and keep the plexiglass looking sharp and clean. However, if it needs more work, you can do the following;

Step 2: Washing

Depending on the size of the plexiglass itself, you’ll want to perform this step outside or in a large sink.

• Mix one teaspoon of dish soap per one quart of water and put the mixture into a spray bottle or simply pour it over the plexiglass.
• Spray the soap water solution or run the mixture at a 45-degree angle over the plexiglass and let it run down to the bottom.
• By running the mixture, you will remove most of the small particles that are stuck to the plexiglass.

Keep in mind that products like alcohol and acetone can be harsh for plexiglass cleaning and may damage the surface. Hence it’s recommended not to use them.

Common glass cleaning products such as Windex contain alcohol as well, so do not use them on your plexiglass. You should also avoid products that include ingredients such as dry-cleaning fluid, cleanser or polisher that has gritty material. Instead, you can choose specific plexiglass cleaners such as Novus or Brillianize.

Step 3: Wiping

Now that the plexiglass surface is washed and free of dust particles it can be wiped dry using a microfiber cloth, cheesecloth, cotton flannel, jersey cloth, terry cloth or any cloth that does not have any abrasive materials. Do not use tablecloths or paper towels as they contain elements that might scratch the surface.

• Wipe the wet surface using the microfiber cloth and focus on the spots that are still dirty.
• If there is still the dirt and grime built up seen, continue to spray the dish soap and water solution or use a cleaner that is specific to plexiglass while using the microfiber cloth.
• Do not use too much pressure, but instead wet the surface and wipe until the dirt and grime are fully removed.

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Removing the Paint from Plexiglass?

Since plexiglass is a kind of thermoplastic that looks much like real glass, you should be cautious enough while removing the accidental paint spills on it. If not, you can easily scratch the surface making it damaged forever.

Things you will need:

• Kerosene
• Soap water
• Piece of sponge
• Cotton cloth or non-abrasive rags

The steps for getting paint off of plexiglass are as follows:

• Take a clean rag and dip it into a small amount of kerosene
• Gently rub the moistened rag onto the stained paint area until you see the paint coming off
• Now take a small bowl filled with a cup of warm water – add 1 tbsp of gentle soap into it
• Take a piece of sponge and dip it into this soapy water. Make it moistened by squeezing out the excess soap water
• Rub gently this moistened piece of sponge on the plexiglass to remove the kerosene
• At last, rinse the area softly with clean water and make the surface dry using a soft clean cotton cloth or a paper towel

Drying the Plexiglass after Cleaning

Once you have removed all the dirt, grime, paint, and other particles, you are ready to dry the plexiglass.

Do not let it air dry as the water spots will remain. Instead, use a dry microfiber cloth (without rubbing or pressing it too hard into the plexiglass) to remove all the moisture and water drops.

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Cleaning the Really Dirty or Scratched Plexiglass

Removing elements such as stickers, paper, adhesive glue, old dried paint, etc. can be tricky from plexiglass. But the good thing is that it is still possible to repair scratched and dirty surfaces.

Depending on the amount of damage that is present, here are a few things that can work…

1. Scraping

For dirty surfaces that normal cleaners or the dish soap and water solution cannot penetrate, you can start by using a razor blade or specialized scraping tool to remove the dirt and grime.

A razor blade is especially useful on uneven or jagged surfaces as it can remove the grime or dirt effectively. However, its helpful to wear gloves to prevent cuts or injuries when using a very sharp blade.

Angle the blade at about 10-degrees and do not press into the plexiglass itself. The goal is to slide the blade under the dirt and grim to pull it away from the surface.

2. Sanding

Once you have removed all the grime using the blade, the next step is to use 220 or 320 grit sandpaper to get rid of any deep scratches or markings.

Start with the 220 or 320 grit sandpaper for deep scratches and move to 600 or 800-grit to make the surface even more smooth. Do not apply any force to the surface and remember to wear a dust mask when you are sanding a large surface.

3. Buffing

Once you have completed the sanding process, now its time to buff the plexiglass as this will bring back the luster and shine without damaging the surface.

You can use a stationary polishing wheel or choose a buffing pad attached to a Dremel tool, your choice.

However, if you want to avoid a heat build-up, use a strip of bleached muslin with bias straps of 8 up to 14 inches. This will keep the wheel itself from becoming too hot in the buffing process.

Make sure the plexiglass is locked down tight so that it stays in place when you are buffing. Plus, if you want a glossy finish, use a medium cutting compound. For more luster, a fast-cutting compound is a great solution.

You can help protect the surface, from dusted particles, by covering it with a cloth that does not contain any abrasive elements. If that is not possible, regular dusting using a hairdryer will keep the dust to a minimum. When taking each step, be sure to look over the plexiglass and note any areas that need addressing.

The Bottom Line

Plexiglass (also called acrylic or acrylic glass) for windows and various other décor items is getting popular due to its lightweight, transparent and shatter-resistant properties. Available in various trade names like Acrylite, Astariglas, Crylux, Lucite, Perclax, Perspex, and others, it serves as a great alternative to glass. 

Cleaning and removing the paint from these thermoplastic sheets can however be tricky. Use the right products, and follow the above guidelines with patience and I am sure you can get your plexiglass in tip-top condition without any scratching.